Melanotan II vs IGF-1 LR3
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
Melanotan II
Melanotan II is a synthetic peptide analog of α-MSH with broader receptor activity than Melanotan I. It produces tanning effects and has notable effects on sexual function and appetite suppression.
Full details →IGF-1 LR3
IGF-1 LR3 (Long R3 Insulin-like Growth Factor-1) is a modified version of IGF-1 with extended half-life and enhanced potency. The modifications prevent binding to IGF binding proteins, increasing bioavailability.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Melanotan II | IGF-1 LR3 |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist affecting MC1R (tanning), MC3R and MC4R (sexual function and appetite). This broader activity explains its multiple effects beyond tanning. | Binds to IGF-1 receptors to promote protein synthesis, muscle growth, and fat metabolism. The LR3 modification (13 amino acid extension and arginine substitution) extends half-life from minutes to 20-30 hours. |
| Typical Dosage | Typical protocols: 0.25-0.5mg daily during loading phase for 1-2 weeks, then 0.5-1mg before UV exposure for maintenance. Start low to assess tolerance. | Research protocols typically use 20-100mcg daily, often divided into multiple injections or administered bilaterally to target muscles. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection. Usually combined with UV exposure for tanning effects. Nasal spray formulations exist but have lower bioavailability. | Intramuscular injection (site-specific growth) or subcutaneous for systemic effects. Often cycled 4-6 weeks on, equal time off. |
| Side Effects | Nausea (common initially), facial flushing, spontaneous erections, increased libido, appetite suppression, and mole darkening. | Hypoglycemia, joint pain, water retention, potential jaw/hand growth with extended use, and injection site reactions. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Both Melanotan II and IGF-1 LR3 are commonly used for: